Expert Shoulder Instability Treatment in Glendale, Cedarburg, Wauwatosa, WI
Shoulder instability can cause repeated shoulder dislocations, pain, weakness, and a constant feeling that the shoulder may "give out" during everyday activities or sports. Whether your instability developed after a traumatic injury or from repetitive overhead movements, early diagnosis and treatment can help restore shoulder stability and prevent recurrent dislocations. Dr. Jake Bauwens is a fellowship-trained orthopaedic sports medicine surgeon specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of shoulder instability for patients throughout Glendale, Glendale, Cedarburg, Wauwatosa, WI.
Dr. Bauwens provides comprehensive care using the latest evidence-based treatment options, including non-surgical therapies and advanced arthroscopic shoulder stabilization procedures when surgery is indicated. His personalized treatment plans are designed to relieve pain, restore strength and function, and help patients safely return to work, athletics, and everyday activities with confidence.- Wauwatosa
- Glendale
- Cedarburg
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What is Shoulder Instability?
Shoulder instability is a chronic condition that causes frequent dislocation of the shoulder joint.
What are the Causes of Shoulder Instability?
A dislocation occurs when the end of the humerus (ball portion) partially or completely dislocates from the glenoid (socket portion) of the shoulder. A partial dislocation is referred to as a subluxation whereas a complete separation is referred to as a dislocation.
What are the Risk Factors of Shoulder Instability?
The risk factors that increase the chances of developing shoulder instability include:
- Injury or trauma to the shoulder
- Falling on an outstretched hand
- Repetitive overhead sports such as baseball, swimming, volleyball or weightlifting
- Loose shoulder ligaments or an enlarged capsule
What are the Symptoms of Shoulder Instability?
The common symptoms of shoulder instability include pain with certain movements of the shoulder, popping or grinding sound that may be heard or felt, swelling and bruising of the shoulder seen immediately following subluxation or dislocation.
Visible deformity and loss of function of the shoulder occur after subluxation or sensation changes such as numbness. Partial paralysis can occur below the dislocation because of pressure on nerves and blood vessels.
What are the Treatment Options for Shoulder Instability?
Conservative Treatments for Shoulder Instability
The goal of conservative treatment for shoulder instability is to restore stability, strength and a full range of motion. Conservative treatment measures may include the following:
Closed reduction: Following a dislocation, your surgeon can often manipulate the shoulder joint, usually under anesthesia, realigning it into proper position. Surgery may be necessary to restore normal function depending on your condition.
- Medications: Over-the-counter pain medications and NSAIDs can help reduce the pain and swelling. Steroidal injections may also be administered to decrease swelling.
- Rest: Rest the injured shoulder and avoid activities that require overhead motion. A sling may be worn for 2 weeks to facilitate healing.
- Ice: Ice packs should be applied to the affected area for 20 minutes every hour.
Surgery for Shoulder Instability
When conservative treatment options fail to relieve shoulder instability, your surgeon may recommend shoulder stabilization surgery. Shoulder stabilization surgery is performed to improve the stability and function of the shoulder joint and prevent recurrent dislocations. It can be performed arthroscopically, depending on your condition, with much smaller incisions.
Arthroscopy is a surgical procedure in which an arthroscope, a small flexible tube with a light and video camera at the end, is inserted into a joint to evaluate and treat the condition.
The benefits of arthroscopy compared to the alternative, open shoulder surgery, are smaller incisions, minimal soft tissue trauma, less pain leading to faster recovery.
Jake D. Bauwens, M.D.
Orthopaedic Sports Medicine Surgeon
Dr. Jake Bauwens is an orthopaedic physician, specializing in sports medicine and sports-related injuries. Dr. Bauwens attended the University of Wisconsin-Madison to complete his Bachelors of Sciences in Biochemistry degree, and Rush University Medical College to complete his medical degree.
Why Choose Dr. Bauwens for Shoulder Instability in Glendale, Cedarburg, and Wauwatosa, WI?
Dr. Jake Bauwens is a fellowship-trained orthopaedic sports medicine specialist with advanced expertise in treating shoulder instability and recurrent shoulder dislocations. Whether your condition can be successfully managed with rehabilitation or requires minimally invasive shoulder stabilization surgery, he develops individualized treatment plans focused on restoring stability, reducing pain, and improving long-term shoulder function.
Patients throughout Glendale, Cedarburg, and Wauwatosa, WI choose Dr. Bauwens because of his:
- Fellowship training in sports medicine
- Expertise in diagnosing and treating shoulder instability
- Advanced arthroscopic shoulder stabilization techniques
- Comprehensive treatment approach with both surgical and non-surgical options
- Experience treating athletes and active individuals
- Personalized rehabilitation and recovery plans
- Commitment to patient education and shared decision-making
- Focus on evidence-based treatment and long-term shoulder health
His goal is to help every patient regain shoulder stability, restore mobility, and return to an active lifestyle while reducing the risk of future shoulder dislocations.
Shoulder Instability FAQs
What is shoulder instability?
Shoulder instability occurs when the shoulder joint repeatedly slips partially (subluxation) or completely (dislocation) out of its socket. This condition can result from traumatic injuries, repetitive overhead activities, or naturally loose ligaments.
What are the symptoms of shoulder instability?
Common symptoms include shoulder pain, a feeling that the shoulder is loose or may slip out of place, repeated dislocations or subluxations, weakness, popping or clicking sensations, swelling, bruising after an injury, and limited shoulder function.
What causes shoulder instability?
Shoulder instability often develops after a traumatic shoulder dislocation, repetitive overhead sports such as baseball, volleyball, or swimming, falls on an outstretched arm, or because of generalized ligament laxity that allows excessive joint movement.
How is shoulder instability diagnosed?
Dr. Bauwens performs a comprehensive physical examination and reviews your medical history and symptoms. Imaging studies such as X-rays and MRI scans may be recommended to evaluate damage to the shoulder ligaments, labrum, cartilage, or surrounding structures.
Can shoulder instability be treated without surgery?
Yes. Many patients improve with non-surgical treatment, including activity modification, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, shoulder strengthening exercises, and temporary immobilization in a sling following a dislocation.
When is shoulder stabilization surgery recommended?
Surgery may be recommended for patients with recurrent shoulder dislocations, persistent instability despite conservative treatment, or significant damage to the shoulder's supporting structures. Dr. Bauwens will determine whether surgery is appropriate based on your condition and activity level.
How long does recovery take after shoulder stabilization surgery?
Recovery varies depending on the severity of the injury and the procedure performed. Most patients wear a sling for several weeks and participate in physical therapy. Return to sports or physically demanding activities may take several months following surgery.
Schedule a Shoulder Instability Consultation in Glendale, Cedarburg, Wauwatosa, WI
If recurring shoulder dislocations, pain, or instability are interfering with your daily activities or athletic performance, Dr. Jake Bauwens provides comprehensive evaluation and advanced treatment for shoulder instability throughout Glendale, Cedarburg, Wauwatosa, WI. Whether your condition can be treated with rehabilitation or requires arthroscopic shoulder stabilization surgery, you'll receive personalized orthopaedic care focused on restoring shoulder stability and long-term function.
Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and learn about your treatment options for shoulder instability and recurrent shoulder dislocations.
